Unable To Face Renan Barao at UFC 173, Raphael Assuncao Sets Sights On Next Title Shot

No. 3-ranked UFC bantamweight Raphael Assuncao has been on a roll, winning six straight bouts after cutting down to 135 pounds following a UFC 128 featherweight loss to current lightweight Erik Koch.

Last seen defeating Pedro Munhoz via unanimous decision at February’s UFC 170, Assuncao has been calling for the title shot that he’s already made a very strong case for.

And he very nearly got it.

When Chris Weidman went down with knee injuries, May 24’s UFC 173 needed a headlining bout, one that was ultimately scheduled between UFC bantamweight champion Renan Barao and No. 5-ranked challenger T.J. Dillashaw, whom Assuncao beat via split decision at last October’s UFC Fight Night 29.

It was an interesting choice; however, news arose this morning that Assuncao was indeed offered the shot but couldn’t take it due to injured ribs that prevented doctors from clearing him. The Brazilian posted the following on his Facebook page:

“Good day guys! Due to rib injury (and not being released by doctors) I couldn’t get into the chance of dispute to the belt on the #UFC173 day may 24, pretty boring but I will be in preparation waiting for my chance and be the next challenger. I’m in total focus can believe when the time comes I’ll be ready not only to play but to be the new champion want only to fight … I have a plan in everything I do. :)”

It’s an extremely unfortunate set of circumstances for Assuncao, who is the clear-cut next choice for a shot at gold. But, from there, things get a bit murky, as former 135-pound champ Dominick Cruz may be returning by the next time Barao chooses to defend his belt.

Still, Assuncao most likely deserves to fight for the title before Cruz, who will have been out of the cage for nearly three years following brutal bouts with knee surgery and a torn groin.

With the surging Barao on an impressive 33-fight unbeaten streak, he’s going to be extremely hard to knock off of his throne. Do you give Dillashaw, Assuncao, or even Cruz a shot at dethroning the dominant champ from Nova Uniao?

Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie for USA TODAY Sports